The theme of despair also runs through them. The hopelessness that comes with facing Nurgle's forces. His minions are often unstoppable, and the plague they carry can wipe out entire populations. People in the stories are often filled with despair as they see their world falling to this decay. For example, in some novels, we see how villages are slowly consumed by the plague, and the villagers lose all hope as they watch their loved ones die and their homes turn to ruins. It's a very dark and desolate theme that pervades these novels.
Another theme is the cycle of life and death in a very distorted way. Nurgle is seen as a part of this cycle in his own warped sense. His power is not just about death but also about the transformation of life into something corrupted and diseased. So, in the novels, we see how his influence can turn a healthy forest into a fetid swamp full of mutated creatures, or how a once - prosperous city becomes a breeding ground for plague and death.
Disease and decay are major themes. Nurgle is the god of plague and decay, so his novels often revolve around the spread of sickness, the rotting of landscapes, and the corruption of living beings.
Another interesting read could be novels that touch on the battles against Nurgle's forces. For example, some stories where the forces of order fight against the pestilent hordes of Nurgle. These often show the contrast between the clean and orderly side and the decay and chaos that Nurgle represents. They also highlight the heroism of those who stand against his blight.
One of the main themes is the lust for power. Skaven are always vying for more power within their clans. For example, in many novels, Grey Seers plot against each other to gain more influence over the Skaven hordes.
One main theme is the connection to the Old Ones. The Lizardmen are deeply tied to their creators, the Old Ones, and this is often explored in the novels. Another theme is their struggle for survival against various threats in the Warhammer Fantasy world.
Another theme is the exploration of the dark and dangerous Warhammer Fantasy world. The novels take readers through different regions, from spooky forests to underground lairs, filled with all sorts of menacing creatures. This exploration also ties in with the theme of survival, as the characters have to fight to stay alive in this unforgiving world.
In the Malus Darkblade novels, the theme of redemption, or rather the lack of it, is quite interesting. Malus is a character who has done many evil deeds, but there are moments when he seems to question his path. However, the overarching darkness of the Warhammer Fantasy world makes true redemption seem almost impossible. Another theme is the exploration of the dark and seedy underbelly of the elven society in Naggaroth. It shows the power struggles, the dark magic, and the moral decay that exists there, all through the eyes of Malus Darkblade as he navigates this world.
Nature is a huge theme. The Wood Elves are deeply connected to the forest, so their relationship with nature, like protecting it from invaders, is often explored. Another theme is their isolationist stance. They tend to keep to themselves in their forest realms, and this is shown in how they interact with other races in the Warhammer world.
Dark magic is also a central theme. The Dark Elves in these novels are often involved in dark and forbidden magic. This magic is not only a source of power but also a corrupting influence that shapes their society and the characters. It often leads to moral decay and the destruction of relationships. For example, in many stories, a character's pursuit of dark magic causes them to turn on their own family or comrades. The theme of revenge is also prevalent. Dark Elves are a vengeful race, and many plots are driven by a character's desire to avenge a wrong done to them or their family.
One popular theme is the exploration of decay and transformation. Nurgle is associated with rot and disease in the lore, so fan fictions often delve into how characters are affected by this, like a hero slowly succumbing to Nurgle's blight. Another theme is the cults of Nurgle. Writers may focus on the inner workings of these cults, their beliefs, and how they recruit new members. Also, the battles against Nurgle's forces are common themes, showing the desperate struggle of the defenders against the hordes of plague - ridden warriors.
Power is a major theme. Vampires are constantly seeking more power, whether it's through dark magic or political control. Another theme is immortality. Their eternal existence shapes their actions and relationships.
One of the main themes is resurrection and the afterlife. The Tomb Kings are undead rulers who are constantly in a state between life and death, and this is explored throughout the novels.